As the Kentucky Wildcats dropped 3 home games in a row, many people were left questioning if this team would hold its own in the tournament. However, with back to back victories over SEC opponents it is clear that this team could make a run. Kentucky’s a win over Auburn was especially notable. Auburn was coming off a 40 point victory over South Carolina and unbeaten at home. However, the Wildcats finally demonstrated their ability to play good defense and work hard to force turnovers, beating the tigers 70-59.
Defensive Improvement
Throughout the season, defense has plagued the Wildcats and it has seemed as if players didn’t even care about the defensive side of the game. In the Auburn, the team worked hard and put up their best defensive performance of the year. In a post-game interview, Auburn coach Bruce Pearl noted, “If Kentucky plays defense like that, they can beat anybody.” If this team can channel their defensive abilities, they will very difficult to beat.
Key Players
Reed Shepard has been stepping up defensively forcing turnovers and making it difficult for teams to generate offence. In addition, Ugonna Onyenso has been outstanding defensively in the past few games recording 10 blocks against Ole Miss. Another one of the team’s notable players is Rob Dillingham, who is proving to be one of the best freshman in the nation. Last but not least, the teams star player, Antoniuo Reeves who popped towards the end of the game against Auburn, scoing 22.
How can Kentucky Continue their Winning Streak?
The Cats are looking promising, but the season is far from over. This Wednesday, they will face an LSU team who has just upset South Carolina. This Saturday, Kentucky will play currently #13 Alabama, which will certainly show if this team is capable of a National Championship. Beating Auburn in one of the SEC’s most hostile arena’s is quite an accomplished. However, this team still has a lot to prove.
-Brendan Gray
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